In its 150 year history, a lot of people made the city of Harrisburg what it is today.

Some 150 people who helped shape the state capital were honored Saturday during a Founder's Day celebration at The Forum in Harrisburg.

The list of 150 participants of the Highmark Blue Shield Living Legacy series reads like a who is who of Harrisburg.

The list includes former Mayor Stephen R. Reed, Chairman of the Hershey Trust LeRoy Zimmerman, former Patriot-News editorial writer Dale Davenport; Secretary of State Pedro Cortes, President and CEO of The Vartan Group Ralph Vartan, founders of Hersha Hospitality Trust Hasu and Hersha Shah, former Patriot-News advertising employee Lee. E Anthony and current Mayor Linda D. Thompson.

The two-hour program was free and open to the public. About 500 or so people turned out for the event. Those who attended were treated to performances by the Harrisburg Men's Chorus, the Chinese Cultural Art Institute and Ed WindDancer, a nationally recognized Native American flutist. Actors strolled the forum dressed in 19th century garb.

Local historian and participant in the series Calobe Jackson Jr. also spoke about the significance of June 19. "Juneteenth," as it is known, is the oldest nationally celebrated tradition celebrating the end of slavery in the United States. The commemoration got its start in Texas.

Thompson, who has made history by becoming the city's first African-American female to serve as mayor, was the featured speaker.

She was introduced by the executive director of the Governor's Advisory Commission on African Affairs, Sonya Toler. Gov. Ed Rendell was not in attendance, but Toler read a letter on the governor's behalf.

"Harrisburg has flourished under talented leadership and the dedication of its citizens throughout its history," Toler read from Rendell's letter. "... As the city's first African American and the first woman to be elevated to the office of mayor of Harrisburg ... you are a testament that change is not only happening, but happening every day. ... It is my hope that you will continue to serve as a sound, informed and integral voice in Pennsylvania."

Thompson first paid her respects to God, then told the crowd how humbled she was to be included among the 150 Living Legacies in Harrisburg.

Thompson told the crowd that part of her family's legacy is that her great-great-grandfather served in the military during the Civil War.

"I certainly plan on living a legacy and leaving one far beyond what my ancestors have," she said.

She said the Living Legacy is a gift for future leaders and citizens that shows them they can meet most challenges.

"Our past shapes us, but only so much as to say who we are today," she said. "Who we are tomorrow is indeed up to each of us and will be determined by our work. ... and our willingness to overcome the challenges of our time."

The 150 Living Legacy participants gave taped interviews, which are available to the public. People can learn more about Harrisburg's history and its Living Legacies at: www.harrisburgburg150.com

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